How to Help Your Child Succeed in Soccer—By Saying Less and Listening More

Ask your child how they feel when you give them instructions. 🗣️

Not whether they heard you. Not if they agree.

Just how it actually feels to them.

In youth sports—especially soccer—it’s common for parents to coach from the sidelines, in the car, or after practice.

We usually mean well. We’re trying to help, guide, encourage. ✅

Every parent has their own style. Some talk more, some less. Some stay calm, others get caught up in the moment.

But it’s worth asking ourselves: are our words truly helpful… or just adding pressure?

Even when we’re coming from a good place, kids sometimes hear something else—

That they always have to get it right.

That they’re not doing enough.

That there’s always something wrong. 🤷‍♂️

Having a simple, honest conversation—like:

“How do you feel when I give you tips or directions ?”

can open up a whole new level of understanding.

You might realize there are moments when your words really do help…

and others when just being there quietly means the most. 🤝

Sometimes, your presence is all the support they need. 💚

If you truly want to understand how to help your child succeed in soccer, start by asking how your words feel—not just what they hear. Kids don’t always need a post-game breakdown. Sometimes, they just need to know you’re proud, win or lose. When they feel safe, seen, and supported, confidence grows naturally—and so does their love for the game. That’s the kind of success that matters most.